Minnesota Timberwolves: Future could be interesting for Juan Hernangomez
There are plenty of players on the Minnesota Timberwolves that they could look to move this offseason, but one of the more notable names on the roster would be Juan Hernangomez, who was acquired just before the 2020 NBA trade deadline.
The Minnesota Timberwolves made a very consequential trade before the 2020 trade deadline when they moved Robert Covington for Malik Beasley, Juan Hernangomez, and a 2020 first-round pick (which was then flipped for two later firsts).
Minnesota Timberwolves: Future could be interesting for Juan Hernangomez
Hernangomez, a key part of that deal, has been very disappointing thus far in a Timberwolves jersey. Playing 52 games this season, he averaged 7 points per game on splits of 44/33/62 – and for a big man whose entire game is based upon his ability to shoot – Hernangomez simply is not good enough at it to warrant the salary he currently possesses.
Juan Hernangomez’s contract, as mentioned, is pretty substantial given the role that he had last year – as a reserve forward that played less then 20 minutes per game. Last offseason, he signed a 3-year, $21 million contract with a team option in the final year.
There could be plenty of takers for Hernangomez, though – such as smaller markets that need buy-low options for floor spacing in the front court. For instance, the Kings and Pelicans are two teams to watch when it comes to a possible Hernangomez trade.
While the return could be next to nothing, gaining room under the luxury tax is going to be crucial this year, and the roster spot created by Hernangomez’s departure might be more useful than Juancho himself. There are plenty of buy-low free agency signings that have made an impact before – and the Timberwolves would just have to find one of those players – preferably along the wings or at either forward spot.
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Even if he isn’t traded, if Hernangomez does not improve this season, it seems very unlikely that the Timberwolves are going to bring him back for 22-23, or that any team will be interested in that matter. If he doesn’t bring high-level shooting from the frontcourt, there simply aren’t any other redeemable qualities about his game.